Gjetost on Rye Bread

Gjetost on rye bread is a classic Norwegian open-faced sandwich featuring a slice of dense, sweet brown cheese (gjetost) served on dark, hearty rye bread (rugbrød). The cheese is made by slowly cooking down whey, cream, and milk until the sugars caramelize, giving it a unique fudgy texture and a sweet, caramel-like flavor. It's a staple of the Norwegian breakfast and lunch table.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in fat and carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy. It is rich in calcium and protein from the cheese, with the rye bread contributing dietary fiber and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	195 kcal
Protein	8 g
Carbs	20 g
Fat	9 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	10 g
Sodium	350 mg
Calcium	250 mg
Phosphorus	150 mg
Potassium	180 mg
Vitamin B12	0.5 mcg
Riboflavin (B2)	0.15 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Magnesium	25 mg
Zinc	1.0 mg

Per 1 slice gjetost (30 g) on 1 slice rye bread (40 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Gjetost is unique because it's a 'whey cheese,' traditionally made from the byproduct of cheesemaking, which gives it its distinctive caramelized flavor and smooth, sliceable texture. It's a beloved taste of Norway, often enjoyed simply with coffee.